With vocals that stir the soul and raw, piano-driven melodies, Etham has mastered unique, intimate storytelling in the indie-pop world. The latest single, Just Anyone, is an emotional highlight from the upcoming EP Everything and Nothing, and we caught up with the artist to delve deeper.
Etham opens up about the catharsis of songwriting, the evolution of his sound, and the hope that his music will bring a source comfort to others navigating heartbreak…
A raw reflection on lost love, ‘Just Anyone’ offers the next glimpse of your highly-anticipated EP ‘Everything and Nothing.’ Can you share the story behind this soul-baring single?
Just Anyone is a song that captures the experience of having to let go and move on from someone that you that you didn’t necessarily want to but can also understand that maybe it was the right thing to do even if deep down there’ll always be that regret because of the space they held in your heart.
Similarly to previous singles such as ‘Still Can’t Move On,’ you blend intimate, unguarded vocals with echoed piano chords to craft a powerful yet heartfelt ballad-sound. How do you think this enhances the song’s message of heartache?
I think in music your always trying to find ways to have the instruments reflect the feelings and concept your writing about and the use of the intimate and raw sounds really glued the emotions together.
Do you often begin ideas with pianos and vocals? How does it all come together?
It’s a mixture of everything, I sometimes have certain lyrics and melodies in my head that I haven’t put any music to and then sometimes I’d structure a whole song with chords then write melodies over the top so I like to switch it up when it feels necessary.
‘Just Anyone’ really captures that age of love that lingers long after a breakup, and the relatable feeling of holding on to memories that refuse to fade. Was writing this song cathartic, helping you to process your emotions?
Yeah every song kinda becomes this diary/journal feeling and it definitely helps channelling and getting those emotions out so it weighs a little less on the mind.
From your 2019 EP ‘Stripped’ to breakout track, ‘12.45,’ how have you evolved as an artist in the last few years?
I think just constantly writing songs, learning from new people and try to be less afraid of failure because as cliche as it is, failure is the only way to learn so I’ve become a lot less afraid of it.
Are there any artists you’d love to collaborate with in the future, and why?
To be honest I’m sure if there’s anyone specific because sometimes there not necessarily known but I just love collaborating with those that make me feel something and that stretches across many genres and artists.
You’ve mentioned that you find stability through music, using it as a therapeutic outlet. Do you hope this can resonate with listeners going through similar emotions?
I really hope so because I think that’s what music is all about and that’s how I felt growing up listening to music so through my observation of music I just hope I can achieve the same as the artist that made me feel a certain way.
If you could describe your upcoming EP, ‘Everything and Nothing,’ in just three words, what would they be?
Therapeutic, Emotional, Hopeful